Title: “I came not to call the righteous, but sinners” Key Scripture: Matthew 9:13 SPS: Explain how to apply this passage, when compared to the command to the instructions not to keep company with sinners in other places. Supporting Scriptures: Ephesians 4:22, 1 Corinthians 5:11, 1 Corinthians 15:33, 1 Corinthians 1:26 Introduction: Christ made it very clear that the religious leaders of his day had the wrong attitude towards “sinners”. But what should our approach be? Should we spend our time with those who are antagonistic towards Godly values in hope that we can change them? What was Christ trying to teach? And how should we apply this lesson? 1. God warns us against the impact of surrounding ourselves with evil. a. He tells us to “come out of Babylon”. b. He commands us to put off our “former conduct” i. Ephesians 4:22 (KJV) That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts; c. 1 Corinthians 5:11 (KJV) But now I have written unto you not to keep company, if any man that is called a brother be a fornicator, or covetous, or an idolater, or a railer, or a drunkard, or an extortioner; with such an one no not to eat. d. 1 Corinthians 15:33 (KJV) Be not deceived: evil communications corrupt good manners. 2. At the same time, Christ taught us not to have the attitude of the Pharisees. a. They were “dismissive” of those who they looked down upon as sinners, not recognizing their own hypocrisy b. In a sense, they treated them with the contempt that is condemned in Matthew 5:22 c. They had no mercy, but were judgemental - and self-righteous d. Christ actually did not spend all His time with “sinners”, but He recognize the humbled heart of those who wanted to overcome their sins and were looking to Him for help. 3. When God calls, He does not look upon our past, or our status, or our credentials - He calls the weak of the world according to His will and plan. a. 1 Corinthians 1:26 (KJV) For ye see your calling, brethren, how that not many wise men after the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, [are called]: Conclusion:
Christ was not teaching us to wallow in evil or distractive company, but showing how he calls according to his will, not perceived righteousness. We must take care not to take on the attitude of the Pharisees of looking down on anyone, recognizing that we are all sinners before God.